15 early signs and symptoms of dementia that you shouldn’t ignore

We all experience memory lapses from time to time. For example, we might forget where we put our keys or forget a friend’s name. But there’s a big difference between these normal cognitive lapses and the true early warning signs of dementia. Understanding this difference can be crucial for you or a loved one.

More than just an oversight

Dementia is more than just forgetfulness. It is a progressive decline in memory, thinking, and judgment that affects daily life. Unlike the occasional mental lapses we all experience, dementia fundamentally alters brain function and impairs communication, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that more than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia. While age increases the risk, it is important to recognize that dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. Early detection is so crucial that some causes can be treated, and new treatments can slow the progression of the disease if detected early.

Let’s examine the 15 warning signs that distinguish normal aging from potential dementia:

1. When forgetting crosses the line

A wooden box filled with old photos symbolizing the erasure of memories due to forgetfulness in early dementia.
Source: Pexels. We’ve all forgotten an actor’s name or misplaced our glasses. It’s normal. But what isn’t normal? Forgetting you saw a movie yesterday or constantly losing track of conversations and current events. Dr. Dickson of Massachusetts General Hospital explains: “Alzheimer’s disease often first affects the hippocampus—the memory center of our brain. When current events are constantly fading from memory, it’s time to pay attention.” Continue reading: